The M6 was critically acclaimed throughout its lifespan for its elegant, aggressive "shark-nose" styling, its luxury equipment, and its performance. A top speed of 255 km/h (158 mph)[4] made the European version the second fastest BMW ever built next to the M1. This is due to all later BMW models being electronically restricted to 250 km/h (155 mph). However, Rug Cunninham BMW ran a bone stock 1987 BMW M6 in the La Carrera Classic Race in Mexico in 1989, and reportedly recorded a top speed of 283 km/h (176 mph) indicated. An M6 can be distinguished from other E24 models by a larger front air dam, a rear spoiler, BBS wheels, colour matching side view mirrors, M badges on the grille and back, and slightly larger front brakes.

In North America (United States and Canada), the E24 M6 was fitted with the catalyzed S38B35 motor, producing 191 kW (256 bhp) and 329 N·m (243 lbf·ft) of torque. The non-catalyzed version produced 213 kW (286 bhp) and 340 N·m (251 lb·ft) of torque. The non-catalyzed versions were only available in Europe, though there were 538 catalyzed M635csi models sold in Europe in 1988 and 1989. The 1988 and 1989 the M6 was a "world car" with the same bumpers and aerodynamic treatments in all markets.

The M6 achieved 0–97 km/h (0–60 mph) time of 6.0 and 6.8 seconds for the European and American versions, respectively.

Quarter mile times for the European version have been recorded at 14.5 seconds while 161 km/h (100 mph) is achieved in 15 seconds. However, Car and Driver Magazine tested the U.S. M6 in July 1987 and achieved a 0–97 km/h (0–60 mph) time of 6.1 seconds.[5] Also in 1987 Road and Track featured the U.S. M6 as one of the 10 fastest cars in America.[6] Production of the M6 ended in 1989, with 5,859 cars sold, 1,767 of which were North American (U.S. & Canada) models.

The new BMW M6 concept made its debut at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show. It is based on the BMW E63/E64 6-Series, introduced in 2004. It shares the same uneven firing 5.0 L V10S85 engine and SMG III gearbox with the E60M5, and produces 373 kW (500 hp) and 520 N·m (380 lb·ft).

The carbon fibre and other light materials are used in places like the bumpers and roof that are far from the center of gravity and/or high up, so that they not only reduce the overall weight but improve the handling by reducing the moment of inertia and lowering the center of mass height.

It was offered as both a coupé and a cabriolet. Both the M6 coupé and convertible can be visually distinguished from the 630i, 645Ci and 650i by their deeper front valance with air intakes, more contoured side sills, aerodynamic side view mirrors, an additional rear valance with diffuser and the absence of front fog lights. Only 701 examples were produced with a true 6-speed manual gearbox. (323 Coupes + 378 Convertibles).

In the 2010 model year, the M6 was the second-most expensive BMW sold in the U.S. after the $137,000 760Li, with an MSRP of $108,150 for the convertible and $102,350 for the coupe.

Production of the M6 ended in mid-2010, with sales over the five-year run totalling 9,087 for the coupe and 5,056 for the convertible.[8]

Details for the new generation M6 were announced in February 2012, with it being shown at the Geneva Motor Show the following month.

BMW M6 gran coupe

BMW M6 cabriolet

BMW M6 coupe

The new model is based on the BMW F12/F13 and shares its 7-speed M-DCT gearbox, BMW S63V8 engine and other technology with the BMW M5 (F10). The M6 coupé has a carbon-fiber roof and other weight saving measures, making it 20 kg (44 lb) lighter than the M5, however it is 140 kg (309 lb) heavier than the previous M6. The M6 convertible is 50 kg (110 lb) heavier than the previous M6 Convertible.

The official performance figures claim acceleration from 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) in 4.2 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) without the M Driver's Package (allows it to run up to 305 km/h (189 mph)) . The design style is similar to all recent M series cars. The front of the car has a newly designed M kidney grille with an “M6” badge – a homage to the first generation M6.[9]